There are two primary purposes for this assignment: (1) to learn and practice a model for change which can be applied at any time and in any setting to assist you in developing professional competence in regard to a specific population; and (2) to apply the model to a population diverse from you, in order to enhance your ability to provide sensitive culture-specific service. You will be doing this assignment as we explore populations and groups during our classes.

Guidelines:

Select a population which is different from your own identity in at least 2 of the following ways: race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, religion, social class, or ability. Do not pick a group based on behavior (substance abusers, veterans, etc.) Then do the following SIX things.

• Learn about the history of your population, especially, the history in North America or the United States. You may use articles, books, the internet, or any other sources. If possible, include information about your population from the 2010 Census.
• Read an autobiography, a biography, or a story based on true experiences by or about a member of this population. You may choose any book that interests you. If you are uncertain about your choice, please ask me for assistance.
• View a film by or about your chosen population. Documentaries are best.
• Attend an event which is culture-specific to your population. Ethnic fairs and festivals, religious services, gay or straight bars, support group meetings, and community meetings are examples of the kinds of events to select. You should choose an event where YOU will be the "minority" in that culture. While you are at the event, observe the reaction of others to you, and yours to them. Look inward to your feelings about being a minority in this group, and your sensitivity to others' reactions to your presence. Don't place yourself in a situation where you are uncomfortable - you may choose to do this activity with a classmate or a friend if you prefer, though it will dilute your experience somewhat. Select an activity at which you will be at least somewhat at ease - and always safe!
• Interview a member of your population. You may choose a classmate, a friend, someone you meet at the event, or someone you contact for this specific purpose. Ask them about being a member of this population and about their experiences. You cannot interview your family, roommate or your partner.
• Identify an advocacy group of the population. Collect brochure or any other information about the group. Describe how the advocacy group supports the population.

In a 10-12-page paper (double-spaced), present your experiences with each of the parts of this assignment and your reactions to them, carefully delineating each part, what you did/read/watched/asked, and your sources. Your final section should synthesize all your learning and insights regarding the population you have selected. Please be sure to include citations and a bibliography (APA format). I am requiring that you have a minimum of 5 outside references that are professional books and/or journals.

1. Introduction (1-2 pages)
   1. What is the purpose of this paper?
   2. How is the paper organized?
2. Overview of Activities (2-3 pages)

Describe each of the activities you engaged in, when you completed the activity, and what your main takeaways were from each one. You may use a bulleted list or table to organize this section if you wish.

3. Discussion (2-3 pages)

Discuss what you learned from the perspective of at least THREE concepts taught in class (i.e. intersectionality, privilege, cultural humility, etc.). Relate what you observed and learned to class readings and discussions.

4. Conclusion (2-3 pages)

Summarize the main points from your paper and conclude the paper with implications for research, practice, policy, and social work education.

5. References (3-5 pages)